BBQ Chicken Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Chicken Pizza combines the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce with tender chicken, melty cheese, and a crisp crust. It’s a crowd-pleasing twist on classic pizza, perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or game day meals. With a balanced mix of savory and tangy flavors, this pizza offers a delicious alternative to traditional tomato-based pies.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pizza doughcooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)BBQ sauceshredded mozzarella cheeseshredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)red onion (thinly sliced)fresh cilantro (chopped for garnish)olive oilcornmeal (for dusting the baking surface)

directions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat.

Lightly dust a surface with flour and roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.

Carefully remove the hot baking surface and sprinkle it with cornmeal to prevent sticking.

Brush the rolled-out dough with olive oil.

Spread a generous layer of BBQ sauce over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.

Top with shredded mozzarella and optional cheddar cheese.

Evenly distribute the cooked chicken and red onion slices over the cheese.

Bake the pizza for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 large pizza (8 slices).
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use smoked gouda for a richer, smoky flavor.

Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Make it a grilled pizza by cooking the dough on a grill before adding toppings.

Try a cauliflower crust for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes or until heated through.
Avoid microwaving to maintain a crispy crust.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works well and saves time.

What type of BBQ sauce is best?

Use your favorite brand—smoky, spicy, or sweet depending on your preference.

Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but assemble and bake just before serving for best results.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.

Can I freeze the pizza?

You can freeze the unbaked assembled pizza. Bake straight from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, provolone, gouda, or pepper jack also work great.

What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?

Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick and easy shredding.

Should I pre-cook the onions?

No, they will soften and slightly caramelize while baking.

Can I add bacon?

Absolutely—crumbled cooked bacon pairs wonderfully with BBQ chicken.

Is cilantro necessary?

No, but it adds a fresh, herbal contrast to the rich toppings.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a flavorful and satisfying twist on pizza night that brings together the best of barbecue and cheesy comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, it’s sure to be a favorite that disappears quickly. Enjoy the bold flavors and crispy crust anytime you crave something hearty and delicious.

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